Piney Grove
4.68678 reviewsCR 3550 BOX 244, NEW SITE, MS 38859, USA
Piney Grove
$34.00 - $36.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $34 to $36 per night for standard electric sites. Premium waterfront sites cost an additional $2 per night. Reservation service fees...
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Standard Site Fee$34.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$36.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$10.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$80.00
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About this campground
Nestled among towering pines on the shores of Bay Springs Lake, Piney Grove Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the best of Mississippi's Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway. This beloved lakeside retreat transforms camping into an adventure, where mornings begin with birdsong filtering through the forest canopy and evenings end with stories shared around crackling campfires. Whether you're casting a line into the pristine waters, exploring scenic trails by bike, or simply floating in the refreshing lake, every moment here connects you with nature. Modern comforts blend seamlessly with the outdoors—each thoughtfully designed campsite comes equipped with water and electric hookups, welcoming picnic tables, and dedicated fire rings for those perfect s'mores nights. Families gather at the playgrounds and multi-use courts, while the convenient laundry facilities and community amphitheater ensure your stay is both comfortable and memorable.
Piney Grove Campground is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and offers standard electric sites suitable for RVs and tents. It features spacious, waterfront, and wooded sites, catering to a variety of camping preferences.
Historical SignificancePiney Grove Campground sits at the heart of an engineering marvel that reshaped American commerce and geography. The Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway stands as a testament to human ambition—recognized as the largest earth-moving project in world history. This remarkable achievement created a vital artery linking America's heartland to the Gulf of Mexico, transforming the landscape into both a recreational paradise and a crucial commercial lifeline. Today's campers enjoy their adventures on waters that carry the legacy of this monumental undertaking, where pleasure boats share the waterway with commercial vessels continuing a tradition of connection and commerce.
Weather and SeasonsMississippi's warm embrace defines the camping experience at Piney Grove, where sun-drenched summer days invite endless lake activities and balmy evenings are perfect for stargazing. Nature occasionally orchestrates dramatic thunderstorms that sweep across the lake, bringing refreshing rain that enhances the pine-scented air and creates a symphony on tent roofs—these atmospheric interludes add character to any camping story without dampening spirits. Summer visitors should note that the bathroom facilities capture the season's warmth due to limited airflow, making early morning and evening visits more comfortable.
ElevationThe gentle topography of the campground creates an accessible outdoor experience, with the landscape naturally flowing toward the welcoming waters of Bay Springs Lake.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of pine trees creates a natural sanctuary at Piney Grove, where filtered sunlight dances through the branches and the nine-mile expanse of Bay Springs Lake sparkles invitingly beyond the treeline. This slice of the 234-mile Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway offers endless vistas of water meeting forest, creating perfect postcards at every turn. The thriving ecosystem welcomes observant campers with frequent wildlife encounters—playful squirrels scamper through the campground entertaining children, while the occasional snake reminds visitors they're sharing this space with nature's diverse residents. Each season paints the landscape differently, from spring's fresh green awakening to autumn's golden reflections on the water.
Geological RegionPiney Grove Campground occupies a unique position along the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway, where human engineering merged with natural geography to create Bay Springs Lake. This remarkable feat connected the Tennessee River to Alabama's Tombigbee River through 234 miles of carefully crafted channel, representing the planet's most ambitious earth-moving endeavor. The resulting landscape seamlessly blends the natural contours of northeastern Mississippi with the engineered waterway, creating diverse ecosystems where the original terrain meets the vast lake waters. This fusion of natural and human-made features offers campers a distinctive environment where geological history meets modern recreation.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes paved roads and paths and offers waterfront sites for ease of access. However, steep inclines at certain spots may present challenges.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and well-equipped, with a mix of pull-through and back-in options. Some sites can accommodate larger RVs, but others are better suited to smaller setups.
Sites PrivacySites are well-spaced, offering moderate privacy. However, some reviews mention that a few sites are too close to each other, which can compromise the sense of seclusion.
Total Campsites141 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the basketball courts if you prefer quiet. Site 10 offers proximity to the playground and pier, making it a favorite among families. Site 118 is described as 'probably the best spot on the campground.'
Best CampsitesCampsites 10, 13, 125, and 118 are frequently praised for their layout and waterfront views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
4:00 PM
Check-out
3:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limit is mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground has three loops, with 141 total sites. Loops 2 and 3 are seasonal.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from March 1 to December 31 each year. Loops 2 and 3 are closed during the winter season (November 15 to March 1).
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made online or via phone using Recreation.gov. Attendants cannot process reservations at the gatehouse.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability exists for tent sites at $10 per night, but advance reservations are generally required. "You MUST have a reservation to camp. Attendants cannot do transactions at the gatehouse."
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee plus the first night's recreation fee if made late (after midnight one day before check-in). Changes to reservation dates also incur a $10 fee. Refunds depend on the timing of the cancellation.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
Piney Grove provides diverse recreational opportunities. Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and biking around the picturesque Bay Springs Lake. The campground also features basketball courts, volleyball courts, and a seasonal swim beach. Activities like wildlife viewing and relaxing by the water are also popular among campers.
Hiking
Hiking is available but limited. Some trails are well-maintained, but visitors looking for extensive or challenging trails may need to venture outside the campground.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at Bay Springs Lake, with opportunities to catch bass and other fish species. There are dedicated fishing piers within the campground.Swimming
The campground includes a designated swim beach, which is seasonal. Reviews indicate it is a great spot for families, although closures during some periods have disappointed visitors.Biking
There is plenty of paved space for biking within the campground, making it a family-friendly activity.Boating
Boating is highly recommended at Bay Springs Lake. The campground offers boat ramps and even waterfront sites where visitors can dock their boats.Wildlife viewing
Visitors have reported sightings of deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds. Some have also noted snakes in the area, so caution is advised.Beach activities
The swim beach provides opportunities for sunbathing and water activities, although it is seasonal and subject to closures.Winter Activities
The campground may not be ideal for winter recreation as certain loops are closed during the off-season.Water Sports
Kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding are popular activities at Bay Springs Lake, with its clear and calm waters.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must use local firewood to prevent pests.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM onwards.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife hazards include snakes, particularly near tall grass, and poison ivy. "There are snakes too from weeds too high, just sad" noted one reviewer.
Active alertsLoops 2 and 3 are closed during winter. Other closures include the swim beach and laundry facilities.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Partly cloudy
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency services are likely located in Booneville, approximately 25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMarch 1 to September 22, 2025 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, and the staff often assist with keeping the campground clean. Recycling options are not explicitly mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly on Bay Springs Lake with numerous waterfront sites. Two boat ramps and floating docks are available.
Common complaintsComplaints include crowded sites, unclean bathrooms, and poor maintenance of grass and playgrounds. Lack of sewer hookups is frequently cited. "Bathrooms specially showers stayed nasty."
HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, with some going above and beyond to assist campers. "Host was outstanding and made sure we were settled in our spot on the lake side."
Campground Map
CR 3550 BOX 244, NEW SITE, MS 38859, USA
Driving directionsFrom Hwy 45 near Booneville, MS: take Highway 30 East for 15 miles to Burton, turn right on CR 3501. Follow for 3 miles and turn left on CR 3550 at the sign for Piney Grove Recreation Area. Go straight for 3 miles and you will arrive at Piney Grove Campground.
Accessible via paved roads. No seasonal closures were mentioned. Some reviews note GPS directions led them to gravel roads, which may be challenging for motorcycles and large rigs. "Do not take county road 3440 to get here; it's a one-lane gravel road."Nearby places
Booneville (approximately 25 miles away), Burton (approximately 3 miles away), Tupelo (45 minutes away).
Nearby supplies
The closest grocery store is about 15 miles away in Booneville. A small country store, Martyville, is located about 4 miles away and offers limited supplies including breakfast and lunch options.
Camper Reviews
4.7
678 reviews
Piney Grove is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Piney Grove Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for its natural beauty, clean facilities, and family-friendly atmosphere. However, some reviews highlight maintenance issues with bathrooms, the need for better groundskeeping, and limited amenities like WiFi or sewer hookups.
Review Summaries
Based on 678 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers consistently praise the campground's scenic location by Bay Springs Lake, the spacious and well-maintained campsites, and the friendly staff. Many highlight the variety of recreational...
Based on 678 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unclean or outdated restrooms, high grass and weeds, presence of snakes, and occasional overcrowding. Some users were disappointed by the lack of sewer hookups and closures of the...
Based on 678 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies as the campground is relatively remote. Consider booking waterfront sites for the best views. Visitors should also bring insect repellent and exercise caution regarding...
Based on 678 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is highly popular during the warmer months, particularly in spring and summer. Some loops close during the winter, limiting site availability. Seasonal closures of facilities like the...
Based on 678 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Beautiful COE in Mississippi! 2 different camping areas and what looks like a great beach." - Steve Nietzel. "Great family-oriented camping area. The place is well kept up. The nights are peaceful...
Based on 678 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 12 is praised for its great views of the lake and access to a nearby pier. Site 118 is noted as one of the best spots in the campground for its spacious layout and waterfront location.
Based on 678 reviewsAccessibility Features
Some reviews praise the paved areas and accessible site layouts, but there are mentions of steep inclines at certain sites that may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Based on 678 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but visitors are reminded to keep them leashed and clean up after them. Some complaints were raised about barking dogs and pet waste in common areas.
Based on 678 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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